• ADOPTION POLICIES, PROCEDURES & REQUIREMENTS

PLEASE READ THE FOLLOWING CAREFULLY BEFORE YOU APPLY

DRC has adoption requirements and policies that are in place to ensure the safety, well-being and appropriate placement of every doodle dog in our program. 

Please read through carefully and completely BEFORE applying. Be certain that your home environment and lifestyle are both compatible with, and appropriate for, rescue doodles, in accordance with our policies and requirements.

Upon review of your application, if we for any reason feel your home environment is not appropriate for a rescue doodle, or if you are in any way non-compliant with DRC requirements, then we will not be able to proceed with your application.

Adopters are selected based on compatibility. NOT on a "first come first serve" basis. Every doodle is an individual and every doodle has his/her own specific needs and requirements. At no time does DRC ever put the desires of applicants before or above the needs and requirements of rescue doodles in our program. 

Incomplete applications or those that fail to provide answers to required questions ARE NOT ELIGIBLE FOR REVIEW  and  WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED.

PLEASE SEE: "CERTIFIED PRE-OWNED DOODLE" for a better understanding of our process.

THE "BASICS"

• You must be a minimum of 21 years of age to apply to adopt a DRC doodle.

• You must be willing to make a 10 to 16 year, "lifetime commitment" to the rescue doodle you are seeking to adopt.

• RESCUE DOODLES ARE NOT PERFECT - You must acknowledge that you have a complete understanding of these words. No matter their origins, no matter how adorable and well-mannered they may appear to be, every doodle in the DRC Rescue Program has experienced loss of the familiar; whether it's the loss of a home and family or a sudden change to their living environment. If you are expecting to adopt a "perfect dog" based on breeder-hype, media hype, and misinformation, PLEASE DO NOT APPLY OR ADOPT FROM RESCUE.

• If you are unable to physically "pick up" a dog from it's foster location within 1 week of application approval,  PLEASE DO NOT APPLY.

 

• Rescue dogs require time to adjust to their new homes, families and surroundings. If you have planned or are planning a vacation or travel of any kind within 2-3 months of adding a dog to your family PLEASE DO NOT APPLY.

 

• DRC does NOT and will NOT hold dogs and DRC will NOT place rescue doodles with families or individuals who plan on traveling within 2-3 months of adoption.

• DRC does NOT adopt dogs to individuals or families who intend to give the dog to another person or family as a "gift."

• DRC requires multiple phone interviews, reference and vet checks and a home visit when possible.

 If you are unwilling to disclose certain details of your life or dedicate time to providing us with all of the above, PLEASE DO NOT APPLY.

 

•  If you rent, you must have written permission from your landlord that states you are permitted to have pets.

•  You must be willing to sign a legal and binding contract that requires you to notify DRC and return your adopted doodle to us if at any time and for any reason you are no longer able to keep the dog or care for the dog as specified in our contract.

 



•  DRC only adopts doodle dogs to families who will keep them as "inside pets."

This means that if you intend to keep your adopted doodle outside or kenneled, or if the dog will have or can gain access to outdoor areas while unsupervised (ie: doggie door), your application will not be considered.

CHILDREN & FIRST TIME DOG OWNERS POLICY
• DRC does NOT adopt rescue doodles to families with children under 10 years of age. For a better understanding of why DRC will not place rescued doodles in homes with young children, please read the information at the link below.

Q & A - WHY DRC DOES NOT ADOPT TO FAMILIES WITH YOUNG CHILDREN

• DRC does NOT adopt rescue doodles to families with children between 10 -16 years of age without a yard adjacent to the home that is surrounded by a physical fence of at least 4' in height. 

• DRC does NOT adopt rescue doodles to families with children between 10 -16 years of age unless there is a proven history that children have previously lived with dogs in the home.

• DRC does NOT adopt rescue doodles to first time dog owners. You MUST have owned a dog as an adult and have vet records for a dog in your own name.  


SHIPPING POLICY

•  DRC DOES NOT SHIP DOGS.  Please note that our rescue doodles are in foster homes throughout North America, and this is where they will remain until they are adopted. The state abbreviation in front of each dog's name indicates where he/she is located.

EXAMPLE:  FL-Cody ( indicates Cody is located in Florida)

Please be certain that you are able and willing to drive to a dog's foster location before you apply for any given dog. DRC will NOT ship a dog, even if you are willing to pay for it. Only on the rare occasion when a doodle is fostered in an area of the country where it is difficult to place them, or if a particular doodle has special needs, will we consider transport. In those rare cases, transport costs are in addition to the adoption fee and are at the expense of the adopter.

 

DOGS FOR SERVICE POLICY 

Because we feel strongly that all doodle dogs in our program regardless of their origins, deserve to live carefree, stress-free lives as beloved family members, without expectations, DRC does NOT adopt dogs to families, individuals or organizations seeking to train & utilize dogs for service work , emotional support work, or for theatrical purposes.

There are distinct differences between dogs that participate in "therapy work" and those that are trained as "assistance dogs" , "support dogs" or "service dogs." DRC encourages our adopters to consider CGC (Canine Good Citizen) training and certification as any well-mannered dog will enjoy this light-hearted work and benefit from this training program. We will not place a dog in a situation where he is expected or required to be anything other than a loved family member. 

"Assistance" "Support", or "Service" work  is an entirely different situation and only dogs whose temperaments meet very specific requirements and criteria qualify for a life of service. 

True "service dogs" are working dogs that do just that...WORK. They are not considered pets.
 
SEE: "DELTA SOCIETY SERVICE DOG BASICS-ASSISTANCE DOGS VS. THERAPY DOGS"

HEALTH & BEHAVIOR POLICY 

Doodle Rescue Collective Inc. always provides FULL & COMPLETE DISCLOSURE  to applicants and adopters regarding the "known" history, temperament, behavior, personality, health and physical condition of every doodle in our rescue program. Because in many cases rescue dogs histories are often unknown to us and long term health and health-related changes in temperament are impossible to predict, DRC does not guarantee the lifetime health and temperament of any dog in our rescue program.

All doodles that come into the DRC Rescue Program are assessed and evaluated for general health and temperament while in foster care. During their stay with us, dogs are provided with a safe home environment, complete veterinary care, including immunizations, worming, HW testing and preventatives, flea and tick preventatives, spay/neuter and micro-chipping.The average time that a doodle remains in foster care is two weeks to two months depending on individual health and/or behavioral needs.

Any and all health and behavior issues that DRC are aware of prior to adoption, are evaluated/assessed addressed and treated while the doodle is in the foster home. Any and all resources made available to us regionally through our partnerships with licensed veterinarians, and licensed trainers and behaviorists, are utilized in this process. We do our very best to have a full and complete understanding of each individual dog and their needs, before placing that dog into a permanent home.

DRC addresses all behavioral issues through the practice of “positive reinforcement” training techniques implemented while the dog is in a foster home environment. This includes evaluation, stabilization, socialization, basic training, housebreaking, crate training, personality/activity compatibility with potential adoptive families.

DRC does NOT at any time voluntarily euthanize ANY healthy doodle dogs in our adoption program. Only in the most extreme cases of untreatable illness or extreme, unmanageable dog or human aggression as verified by one of our licensed behaviorists/trainers, would we ever consider and/or authorize our participating veterinarians to humanely euthanize a dog in our rescue program.

PLEASE NOTE: Re-Home doodles that remain with their owners until placed, are not in foster care with DRC volunteers nor are they in the physical custody of DRC. Therefore, they are not always evaluated by DRC personnel prior to placement.

DRC SPAY/NEUTER POLICY

All DRC  doodles are spayed and or neutered prior to leaving foster care. On the rare occasions when a dog in the DRC rescue program is under 12 weeks of age, early spay/neuter is not performed prior to adoption for general health and development reasons. This practice is recommended and approved by all participating DRC veterinarians. In those specific cases puppies are placed in the adoptive home with strict and enforced spay/neuter contracts requiring an additional deposit refunded to the adopter upon presentation of a certificate of proof of spay/neuter from a licensed veterinarian or clinic. DRC directs the adopter to one of our pre-approved local vets and/or low cost facilities for this procedure.

"PHYSICAL FENCE" POLICY

If you have children under the age of 16, a PHYSICAL FENCE is required.


We have all either experienced it, have seen it happen or have heard of it happening. Doors or gates accidentally left open, dogs escaping homes and yards only to be lost or hit by a car and maimed or killed. Ask us how many "escaped pet" scenarios involve doors and gates being accidentally left open by children and we'll tell you the statistics are alarming.

A physical fence is sometimes the only thing standing between a rescue doodle and danger or even death.

Doodles are highly intelligent, high energy, sporting dogs with retrieving instincts.  By nature, many if not most, have a "high prey drive"  or a propensity to chase wildlife such as squirrels, rabbits etc. Many of our adoptable doodles come from puppy mills or abuse/neglect situations and are fearful. Consequently they can be potential flight risks.

A physical fence prevents any of the above mentioned scenarios from occurring further ensuring the safety and well-being of our adopted doodles and their families.

In addition, a physical fence allows the dog to run safely off-leash. Being retriever and herding dog mixes, most doodles need more exercise than just leash walks; they really need to run on a regular basis. Many rescue dogs are not good candidates for dog parks, at least initially. A fenced yard enables them to safely get the exercise they require.

DEFINING WHAT WE CONSIDER A "PHYSICAL FENCE"

• When we say "physical fence", we are referring to an area COMPLETELY ENCLOSED ON ALL SIDES by chain link, picket, stockade, pvc, stone, brick or welded wire fencing (to name a few) no less than 4 feet in height. Post and rail fences must be fitted with securely attached wire in between rails, in order to be considered a "physical fence" by Doodle Rescue Collective Inc.

• Fence must be in good working condition with no areas of disrepair or weakness.

• The fenced area must be adjacent to and directly accessible from the house.

Please know that even in adult-only homes, it is virtually impossible to contain and/or consistently monitor even well-supervised, well-trained doodles when off-leash in open areas not enclosed by a physical fence. Now take all that into consideration and throw in the kid factor.

Any one of the above mentioned situations or scenarios could be potentially dangerous and/or life-threatening to a rescue doodle. 
This is why we insist that adopters with age-appropriate children living in the home have yards surrounded by a secure, physical fence no less than 4 feet in height. This is particularly important in busy suburban areas that surround big cities where there is a high volume of automobile traffic on local roads and highways.

INVISIBLE / ELECTRIC FENCING ("E-FENCE") POLICY

While invisible fencing is a good solution for places where zoning or other limitations prevent a physical fence, it is not the ideal situation for rescued doodles.

 



• It does not keep out predators (wildlife, other dogs, or people).



• It does not allow a dog to return home once it bolts.



• For poodles and retrievers (who both have a high pain tolerance, a genetic desire to
roam, and a high prey drive), it may not be sufficient to contain them. These dogs are highly intelligent and they will quickly figure out that a few seconds of pain is what stands between them and the squirrel or dog they are seeking to chase. Consequently doodles have been known to frequently break through the invisible fence.

 



• If two or more active dogs are in residence, they can venture outside of the region while playing and will be unable to return.



 

Because a rescue dog's history can in many cases be completely unknown to us and their behavior can be unpredictable, we stick to our policy. Many rescue dogs no matter their breed or mix, do not react well to invisible fence training.

 

 

SWIMMING POOL POLICY

Because of the tragedies involving dogs drowning in swimming pools, DRC has the following policies in place to ensure the safety and well being of all adoptable doodles in our program.

• Dogs should only be allowed access to the pool when there is a responsible adult present.


• An in-ground pool should have steps; a ladder is not acceptable and you must be committed to teaching your dog how to use the steps.


• An in-ground pool must have an elephant cover or a locked enclosure.

 

• An above ground pool should have a locked gate

 

URBAN (CITY) ENVIRONMENTS POLICY

While we know for a fact that there are many wonderful pet owners and pet-friendly families that happen to reside in large, busy cities, DRC does not generally adopt our rescue doodle dogs to families living in urban areas and/or within city environments.

To a doodle who has not previously been exposed to the constant stimuli, crowds, sights, sounds, smells and hectic pace of a metropolis, a sudden and extreme change in environment can confuse, overwhelm, and frighten them and ultimately create even more stress for an already insecure dog.

While there are always exceptions to every rule, we have seen that many doodles over the age of 4-5 months that are used to more rural or suburban environments, do not readily and easily adapt to city life. Young puppies are more likely to adapt to an urban environment than young adults and older dogs. Especially those who have had no experience of city life prior to coming into rescue.
 
Whether they come to us from a shelter, puppy mill, reputable or disreputable breeder or a re-home situation,the majority of the doodles that come into the DRC program are over one year of age and come from rural or suburban origins.  When they arrive in foster care their stress levels are already high and their emotional states compromised from either having suffered the loss of the home and family they were accustomed to or from being in a shelter environment or unfamiliar surroundings.

On occasion, exceptions are made to this policy on a case by case basis depending on the dog and/or:
 
• If a particular doodle in our program has previously lived in an urban environment.

• If the dog happens to be a young puppy under 4 months of age.

MILITARY PERSONNEL & ARMED FORCES FAMILIES

DRC does NOT adopt rescue doodles to individuals or families who are actively serving in the armed forces.

Because there is always a chance that military personnel  may be transferred to other locations where they may find themselves in base housing or rental properties with restrictive pet policies, DRC will not take the risk that any of our rescue doodles will become either displaced or homeless due to military deployment or re-assignment.

Sadly, we are seeing an increase in re-home assistance requests from military personnel due to military deployment, reassignment and/or relocation.

DRC ADOPTION DONATIONS

It's important that you keep in mind that adoption is not free and you will be required to pay an adoption fee for the privilege of adding a canine companion to your family.

 



Adoption Donations range from:

$300-$1000

and vary according to the age, health and temperament of each dog.



 

"Why Must I Pay To Adopt From A Rescue?--Shouldn't The Rescue Just Be Happy That One Of Their Dogs Is Going To A Loving Home?"



It is important that you do not misunderstand the intentions of DRC and other rescues.

The adoption fee is a donation that helps us cover that dog’s expenses such as vetting costs for spay/neuter surgery, heartworm and flea and tick preventatives, medicines, grooming, and safe transport. It also covers any general care expenses that we have reimbursed to our foster homes such as food, crates, leashes, collars and training.
 
In many and most cases a dog's expenses are far greater than the amount of the adoption fee we are requesting.

 

Remember that your generous donation enables us to continue saving other doodles in need.



 

THE WRONG REASONS TO CONSIDER ADOPTION



Rescue, while rewarding and wonderful should never be decided upon impulsively. There are many specifics that need to be considered before you decide to add a canine companion to your family. 

 

This is why our in-depth application process is essential to ensuring that potential adopters are not jumping into a situation they may not be able to handle.



 

Your decision to rescue a "forever companion" is very personal and can be quite an undertaking. Your reasons for considering adoption should never be based on "pressure from friends and/or family members", " the latest trends", "what everyone else is doing" or because it's "politically correct".

 



Adoption is NOT a way for you to avoid paying a breeder top dollar for a doodle puppy! In fact, rescue dogs can potentially end up being just as expensive as those purchased from reputable breeders for various reasons depending on the particular dog and their circumstances.



 

As a potential adopter you must be prepared for the expenses that come with pet ownership in general and those that are specific to large sporting dogs with extensive exercise, care and grooming requirements. You must be willing to give your all to the doodle you are applying for, just as if you were adopting a child. 

 

"What Information Will I Be Expected To Provide On The DRC Application Form?"



 

The following list of information should give you an idea:



 

Name, address, contact info (phone, email)



 

Your age and the ages of your family members



 

Details about other family members you may live with, including the number of children under 18 years of age.



 

Would you adopt a dog who has health problems or is of a senior age (7 plus)?

 



Have you owned a dog or a doodle before?



 

Do you currently own any dogs, cats, or other family pets?



 

What type of home do you live in (I.E. house, apartment, etc.)

ARE YOU PREPARED?

Some rescue dogs adjust to their new lives and families better than others. Some don't bat an eyelash, while others may have difficulties and require extra patience, time and care as they acclimate.



 

Anyone who is interested in adopting a doodle or any other animal through rescue MUST be prepared for an adjustment period. Typically it takes 2 weeks for a dog to become comfortable in their new home and surroundings. In some cases it takes longer.

Doodle Rescue Collective Inc.

77 Buttonwoods Ave.

Warwick, RI 02886

PHONE: PLEASE USE EMAIL

FAX: 1-866-422-8803

EMAIL: rescue@doodlerescue.org